beardequipment

Employee Spotlight: Jamie Worsham, Territory Manager | Golf Division

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:58:57 GMT

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT:

Jamie Worsham, Territory Manager | Golf Division

As the Zurich Classic in New Orleans, LA, returns April 20–26, Beard Equipment Company is proud to spotlight a team member who has been working behind the scenes to help make it happen for nearly two decades—Jamie Worsham.

A Territory Manager covering the state of Louisiana, Jamie is in his 19th year supporting tournament operations at TPC Louisiana (with what would have been his 20th if not for the 2020 COVID-19 cancellation). His involvement began with a simple decision: step up and help when it was needed most. With TPC Louisiana being one of his largest customers, volunteering wasn’t a question—it was a responsibility. “It was really a no-brainer,” Jamie says.

Jamie’s connection to golf started early. Introduced to the game by his father at just 2–3 years old, that passion has stayed with him ever since. Today, being part of tournament week—working alongside professionals and helping prepare the course for play—is something he looks forward to every year. Over time, he’s taken on a variety of roles, from mowing greens and tees to primarily focusing on fairways using a Precision Cut 6700A Fairway Mower.

Throughout his years at the tournament, Jamie has worked with three superintendents, including current Superintendent Tyler McCool. Each one, he says, has left a lasting impression. “I’ve always been amazed at what they can do to make a course shine for the TV cameras,” he shares. “They’re truly artists at what they do.” He’s also built strong relationships with crew members who have been part of the event since his very first year—connections that continue to make the experience meaningful.

While Jamie has had the opportunity to meet well-known pros and caddies over the years, it’s the personal moments that stand out the most. During his first year volunteering, he was able to bring his father—who was disabled—out onto the course in a cart to experience the tournament firsthand. “He wouldn’t have missed that tournament for anything,” Jamie recalls. After losing his father the following year, that memory has made tournament week even more special.

Preparation for the Zurich Classic begins long before April. Shortly after the holidays, Jamie works closely with the superintendent to coordinate a detailed list of tournament support equipment. With play beginning in late April, everything is delivered weeks in advance to ensure the course is fully prepared. Once tournament week arrives, Jamie is on-site from Monday through Sunday, volunteering his time to help ensure operations run smoothly.

For Jamie, some of the best moments happen before the crowds arrive. Early mornings on the course—watching the sun rise before the day begins—are a favorite part of the week. It’s a peaceful start that reminds him of another passion: hunting, where those same early hours hold a special kind of quiet. He also enjoys bringing people together, cooking for the crew and volunteers each Friday during the tournament.

Above all, Jamie emphasizes how much work goes into creating the final product seen on television. “Most people have no clue how much goes into making the course appear and play like it does,” he says. Thanks to the dedication of superintendents, crews, and volunteers like Jamie, the course is transformed into a world-class stage year after year.

At Beard Equipment, we’re proud to have team members like Jamie Worsham—people who go above and beyond to support our customers, build lasting relationships, and play a small but meaningful role in something much bigger.

Building Excellence: Technician Training Program

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:18:31 GMT

BUILDING EXCELLENCE AT BEARD EQUIPMENT:

Technician Training Program

At Beard Equipment, great service starts long before a machine reaches the field. It starts in the training room and the shop, where our technicians invest time sharpening their skills, learning new technologies and reinforcing the standards that define our commitment to customers.

Our technician training program brings together service professionals from across our locations for hands-on learning, collaboration and real-world problem solving. These sessions are designed to ensure every technician is equipped with the knowledge and confidence to support the equipment our customers rely on every day.

Hands-On Learning That Matters

Training goes beyond theory. Technicians work directly with equipment, diagnostic tools and components they encounter in the field. This hands-on approach allows them to:

Strengthen diagnostic and troubleshooting skills
Learn the latest service procedures and technologies
Share insights and best practices with peers
Build confidence in handling complex repairs

By recreating real service scenarios, technicians gain practical experience that translates directly to faster, more effective support for customers.

Investing in Our People

Our technicians are the backbone of Beard Equipment. Their expertise keeps equipment running, projects moving and customers productive. Investing in ongoing training is one of the most important ways we support their growth and success.

Training also creates opportunities for collaboration. Technicians from different locations come together, exchange ideas and learn from one another’s experiences. This strengthens not only individual skills, but also the collective strength of our service team.

Supporting Our Customers Through Expertise

When customers call Beard Equipment for service, they’re relying on more than just a technician — they’re relying on the knowledge, preparation and commitment behind that technician.

Our training programs ensure our team is ready.

Ready to diagnose.
Ready to repair.
Ready to support our customers when it matters most.

A Commitment That Never Stops

Excellence isn’t a one-time achievement. It’s a continuous process.

Through ongoing technician training, Beard Equipment remains committed to delivering the highest level of service and support. Because when our technicians succeed, our customers succeed.

Employee Spotlight: Jimmy Watts, Service Manager

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 14:24:36 GMT

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Jimmy Watts, Service Manager

At Beard Equipment Company, our success starts with the people who show up every day committed to doing the job the right way. One of those people is Jimmy Watts , Service Manager based out of our Nicholasville, Kentucky Golf & Sports Turf facility.

In his role, Jimmy is part of a small, dedicated team that supports customers by handling equipment maintenance and repairs for the Golf & Sports Turf industry. This location serves as a key hub for keeping equipment running at peak performance, providing hands-on service and technical expertise customers rely on every day.

The Nicholasville shop works with a wide range of equipment, mainly including John Deere Golf and Sports Turf and allied equipment , with approximately 325+ units moving through the facility each year for service, repairs and custom reel grinding.

Being part of a lean team means every role matters, and Jimmy takes pride in contributing wherever he’s needed to keep operations moving efficiently. The success of Nicholasville has been Jimmy Watts with his customer focus, drive for perfection in delivering a first-class product to our customers.

Whether he’s troubleshooting an issue, working alongside his teammates in the shop, or supporting customers directly, Jimmy brings a steady, reliable approach to his work. He understands that downtime matters, and he’s committed to helping customers get back to work as quickly and confidently as possible.

What truly sets Jimmy apart is his commitment to continuous improvement. He’s always looking for ways to expand his knowledge, refine his skills and contribute positively to the team around him. That mindset strengthens not only his own performance, but also the level of service delivered at the Nicholasville location.

We’re grateful for the impact Jimmy makes every day. His dedication reflects the people-first culture and service-driven mindset that define Beard Equipment Company.

Interested in joining a company that values its people as much as its performance? Visit our Careers page to learn more about opportunities at Beard Equipment Company.

Beard Technology Solutions: John Deere SmartGrade™

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:12:23 GMT

Beard Technology Solutions: John Deere SmartGrade™

In today’s construction industry, time is money—but precision is everything. Contractors across the Southeast are looking for ways to get more done, with less waste, fewer delays and better margins. That’s where Beard Technology Solutions comes in.

In the video below, we take you behind the scenes to show how Beard Technology Solutions and John Deere SmartGrade™ technology are revolutionizing jobsite performance—and how our team is supporting contractors from the dirt up.

SmartGrade™ is John Deere’s fully integrated 3D grade control system. With GPS-enabled automation and real-time grade tracking, it eliminates the need for stakes, strings and extra passes—meaning faster job completion, tighter accuracy, and major savings on labor and rework.

It’s not just about having the latest machine—it’s about having the right tools working smarter for your bottom line.

Whether you’re:

Grading pads for commercial builds
Laying the foundation for roadways or infrastructure
Moving large volumes of material quickly and precisely

…SmartGrade™ helps you grade with confidence, reduce operator fatigue and maximize every hour on-site.

The real differentiator isn’t just the technology—it’s the support that comes with it. Our Beard Technology Solutions team is dedicated to helping you use technology to its fullest potential. That means more than a quick setup. It means partnership.

Here’s what you can expect from Beard Technology Solutions:

On-site consultations: We assess your workflow and recommend the right SmartGrade™ solutions and machine control setups for your needs.
Training and onboarding: Our team stays on-site to walk operators through the technology in real-world conditions—not just in a classroom.
Ongoing support: If you run into an issue or want to expand your tech capabilities, we’re only a phone call (or jobsite) away.
Advanced data solutions: We offer drone surveying, 3D terrain modeling, and telematics that help you monitor productivity and project progress with numbers—not guesswork.

In addition, John Deere has partnered with Leica Geosystems, offering even more flexibility for contractors who work with a variety of equipment and control systems. Whether you're using Leica for base stations, total stations, machine control or survey work, our team can help you integrate these tools seamlessly into your workflow.

In short: we don’t leave until you’re confident. From small contractors expanding into site work to large crews managing multimillion-dollar developments, Beard Technology Solutions supports operations of all sizes with the same level of care, commitment and technical expertise.

For more than 50 years, Beard Equipment Company has been committed to providing top-tier equipment and unbeatable support. With Beard Technology Solutions, we’ve extended that promise into the future—empowering our customers to work smarter, safer and more profitably.

We’re proud to be a trusted John Deere dealer, but more than that, we’re proud to be a trusted partner on your jobsite. We believe that technology should work for you—not the other way around. Whether you're exploring machine control for the first time or ready to scale your operation, Beard Technology Solutions is here to guide you every step of the way.

Employee Spotlight: Jeff McCleary, Service Manager

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 17:18:17 GMT

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Jeff McCleary, Service Manager

Amid the hum of power tools and the precise whir of reel grinders, Jeff McCleary leads a skilled team in Alabaster, Alabama, dedicated to restoring used turf maintenance equipment to like-new condition.

Jeff’s journey to his current role as a service manager for Beard Equipment Company began in 1981, when he joined the military and trained as a heavy equipment mechanic. By the 1990s, Jeff transitioned into the specialized realm of turf maintenance, working at various golf courses and resorts. When Beard Equipment Company began planning to open its first-ever standalone refurbishment center, Jeff’s extensive experience made him the ideal candidate to lead its service department.

Jeff joined Beard Equipment Company in 2023, under the leadership of Herman Bloch, Vice President of Golf & Turf. “When we began looking for a service manager for the refurb location, Jeff was the first person that came to mind,” says Herman. “I knew his knowledge and background in the golf industry would be influential in the success of our new operation. We are blessed to have Jeff on our team. ”

The Alabaster shop officially opened its doors in November 2023 with Jeff, two technicians, and a handful of machines. The team has grown since then, with the addition of two more technicians and a full-time detail specialist. Through the refurbishment of used equipment, customers can more affordably add top-quality machines to their fleet.

“ We take equipment from municipalities, golf courses, lease returns and try to put them back as best to factory set as we can,” says Jeff. “A typical day on the job for me is opening and closing work orders, inspecting work being performed on the equipment, going over parts lists for the equipment and making sure the techs have what they need to perform their duties.”

Though the team in Alabaster is small, they are mighty. David Davis, Jeff’s go-to for large-scale refurb projects, is known for his meticulous attention to detail. Jeremy Bryant showcases his versatility in the shop working on equipment of all sizes, from walk greens mowers to 7700s. Jacob Fowler focuses on fairway and triplex units, showing skill with reel grinding and bed knife setup. Kyle Strickland, the team’s newest addition, is learning quickly and showing exceptional promise as a technician. Cesar Arguello, the shop’s detailer, ensures every machine receives a beautiful polish and shine when the mechanical work is completed.

The facility itself is outfitted with a variety of the best tools and technology the industry has to offer, ensuring quality and precision. From Golf-Lift 9000s to Bernhard grinders, every piece of equipment is geared toward self-sufficiency and top-tier results. “The right tools, especially the grinders, are essential for the kind of work we’re doing,” says Jeff.

With each used machine that enters the shop, the mission remains the same: restore it to peak performance and visual polish, ensuring it meets customer expectations. For Jeff, seeing the end-result of their work is the most rewarding part of his job. “Sometimes we get in some equipment that’s pretty beat up. We’re able to refurb it, get it back to the best shape we can, and the end-result is knowing that the customer is going to get a good piece of equipment… something Beard and the customer will be proud of,” says Jeff.

Looking toward the future, Jeff’s goals are clear: keep improving, keep growing, and keep delivering value. The team in Alabaster has built a remarkable operation by focusing on what matters most to customers—performance, reliability and affordability. Their efforts are helping to shape a smarter and more sustainable approach to turf maintenance.

Digger Day in Jacksonville, Florida

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 18:46:18 GMT

DIGGER DAY IN JACKSONVILLE, FLORIDA

At Beard Equipment Company, community involvement goes hand-in-hand with our mission to make a difference. That’s why our team in Jacksonville was honored again this year to participate in Digger Day at the St. Johns County Fairgrounds — a powerful and heartwarming event designed to bring smiles to children battling cancer.

This year’s Digger Day was bigger and better than ever, giving kids the unforgettable opportunity to operate real construction equipment. With machines like John Deere excavators and skid steers, children experienced the thrill of digging, scooping and moving dirt under the supervision of trained volunteers. It was a day filled with pure joy, empowerment and hands-on adventure.

But Digger Day wasn't just about fun — it was about making a real difference. Thanks to the incredible support from attendees, sponsors and the community, the event raised more than $70,000 to benefit children fighting cancer and to fund vital pediatric cancer programs through the Dream Day Foundation. Every dollar raised helps support these courageous young fighters and their families during some of the toughest battles of their lives.

Throughout the day, the laughter, excitement and gratitude were impossible to miss. Families shared moments of hope, strength and happiness — reminding everyone why events like Digger Day are so important.

At Beard Equipment, we are deeply proud to support initiatives that build stronger, more compassionate communities. We believe that together, we can move mountains — or, at least, a lot of dirt — for a truly worthy cause.

Thank you to everyone who came out, dug in, and made Digger Day 2025 a massive success! We can’t wait to be part of it again.

Employee Spotlight: Chad Collins, Field Service Technician

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 17:21:51 GMT

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Chad Collins, Field Service Technician

At Beard Equipment Company, we take great pride in our employees who go above and beyond to serve our customers. We’re shining the spotlight on Chad Collins, a dedicated field service technician who specializes in asphalt paving, milling, crushing and compaction. With more than three years at Beard Equipment and nearly a decade in the industry, Chad has built strong relationships with customers and developed extensive expertise in his field.

Chad’s job is anything but routine. Every day brings a new challenge, whether it’s troubleshooting equipment, training customers or working on a variety of job sites. Recently, he delivered a highway-class paver to a customer who had previously been using a smaller model. By the end of the first day, the operators were fully trained and ready to maximize the machine’s capabilities – an achievement that made the job especially rewarding for Chad.

Working in the asphalt industry means long hours and high expectations. Chad is often on call to assist customers in need, sometimes in the middle of the night. But for him, the gratitude he receives from customers makes the hard work worthwhile. “It’s a niche profession,” he explains. “Customers are very appreciative when you help them get back up and running.”

Technology in the heavy equipment industry has evolved significantly over the years. Chad has seen firsthand how machinery has become more advanced, particularly in the milling sector, where today’s machines are equipped with numerous controllers and automation features. To keep up, he participates in continuous training, including specialized courses for further certification.

For those considering a career in field service, Chad offers this advice: “It’s not always easy. There are late nights and early mornings. But the job is rewarding, especially when you see the impact of your work firsthand.” According to Chad, skilled technicians are always in demand, which can lead to job security.

As a Wirtgen Certified Master Technician, Chad will attend a training workshop in Germany to continue his path to growth at Beard Equipment. With three kids at home, he’s not sure if they’ll follow in his footsteps, but he’s ready to support them if they do. One thing is certain – his dedication to his craft and his customers will continue to make a lasting impact at Beard Equipment.

We’re proud to have Chad on our team and look forward to seeing his continued success! Stay tuned for more employee spotlights as we celebrate the hardworking individuals who keep Beard Equipment Company running strong.

John Deere Golf Dealer of the Year

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 19:26:56 GMT

AWARDS & RECOGNITION

Beard Equipment recognized as the 2024 John Deere Golf & Sports Turf Dealer of the Year

John Deere celebrated its top golf dealer and sales representatives during a special awards ceremony held on Tuesday, February 4. Beard Equipment was recognized as the 2024 John Deere Golf Dealer of the Year at the 2025 Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) Conference and Trade Show in San Diego, California.

"These dealerships are essential tools in maintaining the integrity of courses across the country and elevating the quality of play for every golfer. We're especially proud to honor Beard Equipment for its outstanding commitment to customer care and its continued efforts to grow the game of golf," said Manny Gan, Global Director of Golf at John Deere . "Our dealers play a crucial role in supporting the golf industry, and thanks to their dedication, we've earned the trust of top courses worldwide," he added.

In addition to the Dealer of the Year award, John Deere also honored its sales leaders. Bob Mauragas of Beard Equipment received the 2024 Sales Manager of the Year award. Bob has been in the industry for more than 20 years as an ally that has helped guide business forward. Currently located at our Greenville office, Bob has always been a reliable employee, knowledgable dealer, and a friend to many. We recognize and congratulate Bob for his many years of leadership and dedication to John Deere Golf & Sports Turf and his upcoming retirement.

Following the ceremony, the Beard Equipment team attended the 2025 Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA) Conference and Trade Show. As industry professionals gathered together to see the latest in golf course maintenance technology, we were honored to be recognized for our commitment to excellence.

Beard Equipment was awarded Distributor of the Year by two of our valued allied partners, AgriMetal and Bernhard and Company .

AgriMetal manufactures turf maintenance equipment, providing innovative products that result in considerable labor saving for the operator. The company continues to research the market seeking niche products needed by turf professionals.

Bernhard and Company is a specialist in sports turf technology and committed to providing leading turf care solutions to golf course and pitch care specialists worldwide. The company offers innovative and market leading blade sharpening systems as well as sports surface air movement and moisture control solutions.

This recognition reflects our dedication to supporting golf course superintendents with top-tier equipment, service and expertise. Our success is built on a shared commitment to delivering excellence, and we value the strong relationship we have with our allied partners. We're proud to work alongside John Deere and our partners to provide innovative solutions that keep courses in peak condition. A huge thank you to our customers and industry peers for their trust and support - we look forward to another year of building on this momentum and continuing to provide the best solutions available!

For more information about our golf course solutions, visit beardequipmentgolf.com .

Employee Spotlight: Levi Murphy & Pacey Jones, Service Technicians

krobinson@beardequipment.com (Kayley Robinson) — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 18:50:04 GMT

EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT

Levi Murphy & Pacey Jones

"Like Father, Like Son"

In the bustling environment of the service department at Beard Equipment Company in Mobile, Alabama, two technicians stand out – not just for their skills, but for their unique connection as father and son. Levi Murphy and Pacey Jones are a dynamic duo, using their talents to master complex mechanical problems, and deliver exceptional results for customers.

Levi, a seasoned technician with 21 years of industry experience, joined Beard Equipment Company four years ago. "I came to Beard because it had the best facility and was the best fit for me," says Levi.

Pacey, who began working alongside his father just six months ago, credits Levi for guiding him into a rewarding career.
"My dad has always told me that Beard Equipment is a good company to work for," Pacey shares. The endorsement from a figure whom he greatly respects made the choice to join the company an easy one. "I'm very happy and pleased with it," he adds with a genuine smile.

A workday in the service center is anything but typical. “You never really know what’s going to come at you,” Levi explains. They tackle a variety of issues, from diagnostics to repairs, always aiming to get equipment back in working order as efficiently as possible. The thrill of facing new challenges, and solving them, keeps the job exciting and engaging for both technicians.

While they generally focus on their individual tasks, Levi and Pacey often consult each other when faced with tricky repairs. "If I ever have a question, I know I can always go to him [Levi]. He’s always told me to think outside of the box, and he does that a lot himself,” says Pacey.

Pacey describes his experience under his father's wing as a great learning opportunity. "He teaches me a lot of different things," he notes, emphasizing the balance they maintain between personal and professional interactions. "We try to keep our personal life at home, and we usually just stay focused on our own jobs."

Reflecting on Pacey’s childhood, Levi noticed his son’s elevated interest in mechanical repair. “At a young age, he started tinkering with things… four wheelers, lawn mowers, and stuff like that. He just seemed to pick it right up and run with it,” says Levi.

Witnessing Pacey grow into his role as a technician has been fulfilling for Levi. “For me, the most rewarding part of working with my son is just seeing him learn every day and get better,” Levi proudly states.

Regarding Pacey’s decision to start his career at Beard Equipment Company, Levi expresses his contentment, saying, “I’ve been with four different Deere dealers over the past 21 years, and Beard has definitely been the best overall work experience for me. I’m glad for my son to be able to step in and get started with a good company.”

Pacey reflects on his aspirations with a sense of humility and respect. “I would like to one day be as good of a technician as my dad,” he shares. His admiration for Levi’s skills is evident, driving him to continuously develop his own abilities and tackle the inevitable challenges that arise on the job.

As technology continues to evolve, both Levi and Pacey recognize the necessity of continuous training as they strive to keep pace with advancements in the industry. “As equipment changes, we have to learn the new systems in the new technologies, and keep growing in our careers,” says Levi.

In 2025, Pacey is slated to take rigorous, yet rewarding technical training courses offered through Beard Equipment Company. These instructor-led courses are a balance of classroom learning and hands-on application, which will prepare him to take the machine certification capstone exam at the John Deere factory. “I’m pretty excited to get to learn more,” says Pacey.

Earl McRae, service manager at Beard Equipment Company in Mobile, Alabama, is impressed with Pacey’s display of promise, positive attitude and work ethic. “Pacey has a great mechanical mind. When he hears a customer’s complaint with their equipment, he has an idea of where to go for a proper diagnosis right away. He already knows the next steps to getting the equipment repaired. He has a really great attitude as well. I really look forward to watching his career here at Beard,” says Earl.

According to Earl, Pacey’s positive attributes seem to mirror those of his father. “Levi is a huge asset to our company with all the years of experience he has, plus his willingness to help anyone with anything. He has an overall great attitude, and is a great leader in the shop,” says Earl.

Levi and Pacey's story is a testament to the values that have been the cornerstone of Beard Equipment Company’s success for nearly 55 years: building lasting relationships, delivering reliable service and making a difference. Their display of commitment to these principles provide confidence Beard Equipment Company will remain a trusted name in the industry for generations to come.